Rolex Datejust Ref. 1603

The matte grey Datejust is as difficult to acquire as it is remarkable in the metal. In the nearly three years I’ve spent hunting for Rolexes, this is only the second time I’ve managed to land one. But when I hold it in my hands and observe the way in which it interacts with the sun, how it goes from grey to ghost, I know the work is worth it.

Backing up, it’s a Rolex Datejust reference 1603 and, if you know me, you know just how passionate I am about it. From steel engine turned bezel to creamy tritium lume, it’s the perfect watch. A vintage Rolex Datejust is one of the few material items that you can both enjoy for the rest of your life and, when the day comes, pass down to the next generation to do the same. A watch like this is never out of place – from Irish car bombs on a NATO to boring C-suite meetings on a cordovan strap, it never fails to serve you well, impressing the tasteful.

Dialing back in, this example, it features a very crispy steel oyster case, flawless matte grey dial and original Rolex jubilee bracelet. It’s everything a vintage Rolex is supposed to be: versatile, durable, rich and understated. This is one of my favorite watches and I know it’ll never disappoint.